RESIDENTS of Worcestershire are being urged to burn those Christmas calories by getting out and about on a winter walk at National Trust places across the county and in nearby Herefordshire.

There are miles of pathways to enjoy offering people the chance to get out and about in the fresh air and take in the beautiful surroundings.

The excitement of Christmas may be over but now is the perfect time to try out those new walking boots or a new camera and capture family moments or stunning landscapes on an invigorating winter walk.

Andy Beer, director for the National Trust in the Midlands, said: “Whether you want to get fit, spend time with family or just admire the beautiful countryside, you can welcome in the New Year with a visit to your local National Trust property.

“Why not mull over this year’s resolutions while rambling along wooded paths or through country gardens; or get the children planning which ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾’ activities they’re going to complete in 2016.

“Even if it’s grey outside, just wrap up warm, pull on your wellies and plan your adventure.”

The special places the National Trust looks after are packed full of walking trails and great views that look even better with a dusting of frost.

Here are some of the best places to walk in Herefordshire and Worcestershire to put a spring in your step during the cold winter months.

At Croome Court near Pershore, the lakeside in the ‘Capability’ Brown parkland is a perfect place to explore with temples, follies and statues around every corner.

The walk down to the lake and river through the shrubberies is a revealing exploration with many classical features emerging throughout the route.

The walk to the Rotunda leads through the dappled Church Shrubbery, past the thatched Ice House to this grand domed temple surrounded by towering Cedar of Lebanon trees with wide reaching views over the parkland. Giant bird sculptures are hidden in the trees around the park which give an interesting take on bird spotting. There are eight to find!

There are glimpses of the 'outer eye-catchers' which sit on the edges of the parkland around Croome. A wander further afield will lead to one of these follies, including Dunstall Castle, Panorama Tower, Pirton Castle or Park Seat.

Hanbury Hall, near Droitwich was built in 1701 and offers 400 acres of park. A walk around the park leads into the surrounding countryside.

With over 456 acres of parkland to explore there's plenty of wintery adventures to be had at Berrington Hall, near Leominster, Herefordshire. The lake and parkland walk gives great views of the neo-classical mansion as it passes through the 'Capability' Brown designed parkland at the front of the house and then down to the lake.

With over 1,700 acres to explore at Brockhampton Estate, near Bromyard, walks take in ancient orchards, designed parkland, old carriage rides, wild woods and natural play. With ever changing wildlife from birds and insects to fungi and wildflowers, you just never know what you might see.

There's plenty of room for walkers and their four legged friends at Croft Castle, Yarpole, Herefordshire. Choose between the ancient woodland of Fishpool Valley or the dramatic views from the Iron Age hill fort.

Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands to find a winter landscape to explore.